If you think you have GERD, you should schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist. When working properly, the LES serves as a barrier that prevents digestive acid from the stomach from leaking into the esophagus. However, if the LES is weakened or malfunctioning, stomach acid can reach the esophagus and cause repeated bouts of heartburn. These damaged cells can transform into esophageal adenocarcinoma, a potentially fatal cancer. If GERD is suspected, your doctor may perform an endoscopy, a procedure in which a lighted scope is inserted into the esophagus, to examine the digestive tract.
If you are experiencing severe abdominal pain or bloating in addition to heartburn, you may be suffering from gastritis. Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining and may be caused by bacteria, infection, chronic vomiting, or excessive use of alcohol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen. You can change this setting at any time.
Search MemorialCare. MyChart arrow-right. Contact Us arrow-right. Not all of them are obvious. Bitter taste When GERD starts pumping food and bile out of your stomach and up your throat, the acidic contents can quite literally leave a bitter taste in your mouth. In this case, your heartburn will most likely continue to occur until the condition causing it is treated or managed. They can help identify underlying causes for your heartburn and an appropriate treatment plan.
There are many ways you may be able to prevent occasional heartburn or reduce the frequency of chronic heartburn. If you have heartburn more than twice a week or if it interferes with your life, talk to your doctor. You may have gastroesophageal reflux disease GERD. Heartburn is a symptom of GERD.
Unlike occasional heartburn, GERD is defined by having heartburn or other reflux-related symptoms at least twice a week. It can range from mild to severe. In addition to heartburn, GERD symptoms can include:. Frequent heartburn may be a sign that there is constant irritation to the lining of the esophagus. Too much irritation to the esophagus for extended periods of time can lead to ulceration as well as to precancerous and cancerous changes to the esophagus.
If your heartburn is severe or occurs often, see your doctor. GERD often improves with lifestyle changes or medication. GERD symptoms, such as coughing, nausea, and hoarseness, are affected by what you eat.
Both heartburn and indigestion have similar causes, and may be alleviated with similar lifestyle changes and OTC treatments. But there are differences…. A popular over-the-counter drug used to treat acid reflux and heartburn may have the potential to reduce preterm birth. Lansoprazole, a proton pump…. Butyric acid is a fatty acid that's created when bacteria in your gut break down dietary fiber.
It's also found in lower amounts in some foods…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Saurabh Sethi, M. Keep reading to learn what might cause persistent heartburn and how to treat these conditions. Potential causes of persistent heartburn.
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